Automatic shower cleaners seem like a wonderful tool to make shower cleaning easier. However, there are some problems reported with these systems. Consider these problems before purchasing an automatic shower cleaner to make an informed decision.

Function

The purpose of an automatic shower cleaner is to prevent the homeowner from having to scrub the shower every day. It is designed to spray a cleaning formula at the touch of a button to eliminate mildew, mold, soap scum and other residue. The automatic shower cleaner is designed to hang from a shower head and sprays 360 degrees around the shower.

Effectiveness

Users of automatic shower cleaners report the units are effective up to a point. The shower spray is designed for a shower stall and may not not cover enough area in a bath tub. Some of the area above the shower nozzle and some of the corners may never get sprayed. The cleaning formula is mild and it can take several weeks to notice a difference in an already-dirty shower or tub. The 15-second run time may not be long enough to dissolve serious shower grime and mildew. In some cases, the spray can leave a residue on shower walls and doors.

Costs

The unit itself cost can cost anywhere from about $20 to $30, and replacement cleaning solution can cost up to about $5 per refill. Each spray refill lasts about 15 to 20 uses, which, if used every day, is less than one month. The automatic shower sprayer also takes AA batteries to run, and those may need to be replaced every few months.

Considerations

There are many things to consider before purchasing this equipment. If your shower is already dirty, this automatic cleaner may not have enough power to clear away all residue. Coverage of the spray can be spotty, so it may be necessary to manually wipe your shower. The spray is designed for stand-alone showers, so usage in a tub may not be as effective. Consider the cost of the system as well as its refills.

Warning

Some problems with automatic shower cleaners have nothing to do with how the unit operates. It is important to leave the shower door or curtain closed when running the system. Otherwise the spray will escape from the shower onto the floor. The cleaning solution contains a small amount of bleach, which can damage towels, bath mats and shower curtains. The chemicals in the cleaning solution can cause irritation to the skin.